Characters

Frasier's strength lies in the interesting characters that interact on the show. For nearly a decade, the various leading and supporting characters have garnered the show a strong fan base, as well as success. Analyzing some of these major personalities of the program, an interesting observation can be made in relationship between the show and its presentation of the male persona.

• Frasier Crane
• Niles Crane
• Martin Crane
• The Ladies

The program's biggest focal point, is obviously the title character, Dr. Frasier Crane. An established psychiatrist, Frasier has left the comforts and familiarity of Boston, and has returned to Seattle, his hometown. His pompous and preppy attitude distinguishes him from the rest of the cast (except for his brother), as he attempts to emulate those of the upper elite class. However, amidst these traits, he is also a kind and gentle individual, willing to help out friends and strangers with his pyschiatric talents. His pursuits of the finer things in life are also reflected by his tastes in clothing and even furniture, which are quite eccentric, often part of the exotic, expensive, rare and chic.

A man in his middle ages, Frasier's pursuits in life reflect those of an individual looking for stability and contentment in his existence; his romantic relationships have been more aimed at looking for a life-long soulmate, as opposed to looking for a cheap thrill. He also struggles to escape the blue collar background he originates from, as is reflected by his desire to break into Seattle's aristocrat circles. This character represents the male persona in their active adulthood; out in the world, chasing the 'American Dream' that all men in North American society seem to vye for. Success is measured not only through wealth but also in social status, even if simple happiness is thrown to the wayside.

Niles Crane is the younger brother of Frasier. Surprisingly, the younger Crane has also followed in his brother's footsteps and has become an established psychiatrist with a successful practise. More brash than his older brother, Niles is known more to rush into a situation without careful analysis. However, like his brother, Niles also has a flair for the aristocratic lifestyle and lives up to that standard with his demeanour and tastes in fine dining, cultural arts and even living arrangements.

To observe the character of Niles, is to see the child-like traits that all men posses. His eager attitude, seemingly out of place for an adult character, reminds the viewers of a young child waiting to open presents on Christmas morning. Like a young boy walking around a toy store, pointing and saying, "I want that! I want that!", Niles walks through life surrounding himself with elegant and expensive articles, often with utter abandonment to the value of money - perceiving his world as an endless flow of riches, thus not having to worry about ever running out of cash.

After Frasier returned to re-establish himself in Seattle, his father, Martin Crane moved in to live with his oldest son. A retired policeman, Martin spends his days relaxing in his chair, watching TV, playing with Eddie (his dog) and going to the bar to mingle with his friends. Unlike his sons though, Marty (as he is commonly called by his friends) is more down to earth, as reflected by his chair and his speech, which is not as flamboyant or theatric as his sons. A common pursuit he does share with his boys, is that of women; a widower, Marty is looking for that partner to spend his last days with in happiness and bliss.

Reflecting a man past his prime, Martin still seeks to hold onto his independence as much as possible. His macho pride often resents the fact that he is disabled, needing to be looked after like some baby. While most of the apartments fixtures belong to Frasier, Martin establishes his presence (though small) with his chair; making sure that he still has a voice to be heard and not ignored due to his seniority. His experiences has taught him the value of the moment, cherishing the little things that are important in life, such as family and love.

The Cranes | The Ladies

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